On June 9, 2022, violent student protests occurred on and around the campus of the University of Antioquia, leaving one student dead, several more injured, and causing the rector to evacuate campus and suspend campus activity.
Student and activist groups were reportedly commemorating the Day of the Fallen Student, a day honoring students who have died in the course of fighting for their rights. According to reports, protesters violently attacked security forces in and around the University of Antioquia campus using homemade explosive devices. One student reportedly died when a device she was preparing detonated. Three others were injured.
Scholars at Risk is concerned about violence in the course of student protests. While students have the right to free expression and assembly, such actions must be taken responsibly and nonviolently. Violence in the course of activism undermines academic freedom and university autonomy, and makes campuses less safe.
Sources:
https://www.publimetro.co/noticias/2022/06/10/fuertes-disturbios-se-reportan-en-la-universidad-de-antioquia/
https://www.semana.com/nacion/medellin/articulo/vandalismo-en-medellin-un-lesionado-capturas-y-vehiculos-inmovilizados/202246/
https://www.eltiempo.com/colombia/otras-ciudades/que-es-el-dia-del-estudiante-caido-por-el-que-protestaron-universitarios-679170
https://www.elcolombiano.com/antioquia/medellin/universidad-de-antioquia-se-pronuncia-sobre-caso-de-la-joven-fallecida-por-manipular-explosivos-OD17720790